The Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood, as
found in D&C 84:33-48, is an ideal focus for a
scripture-based study of temple themes. These
verses speak plainly about the highest blessings
of the Melchizedek Priesthood. What may be
less-appreciated is the clarity with which the
same revelation describes the required
sequence of ordinances through which
individuals and families may qualify for
exaltation. It is significant that this revelation
was given in 1832, a decade before the Prophet
began to teach many doctrines of the higher
priesthood and the temple in plainness to the
Saints in Nauvoo.
The purpose of this book is to explore the
meaning of the verses summarizing the Oath
and Covenant of the Priesthood in light of the
ordinances required for exaltation. In matters
of doctrine, the author has relied on what can
be found in scripture and in statements of
members of the First Presidency and the
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. To provide illustrations and additional background, he has
drawn from a wealth of other sources. Written engagingly, and illustrated with carefully-selected
images, this book is designed to encourage readers in their own study of priesthood doctrines
and in their personal efforts to understand and keep their covenants.